Tips to Prevent Costly Water Damage from Your HVAC System

In This Article:

• Understanding Water Damage from Your HVAC System
• 9 Causes of Water Damage from Air Conditioners
• How to Prevent Water Damage from Your Air Conditioning Unit 
• Does My Insurance Cover Water Damage?
• Water Damage Restoration and Prevention

Understanding Water Damage from HVAC Systems

Everyone loves their HVAC system, especially during the muggy Ohio summers when the air conditioning works overtime.

However, without proper maintenance and care, your air conditioning unit (AC), an integral part of the HVAC unit, can fail mid-season or become a hidden source of water damage.

The damage from your air conditioner leaking water might start small, like a tiny drip or a blocked drain, but it can quickly become a big problem. If left unchecked, these leaks can damage your walls, floors, and ceilings, leading to costly repairs.

The good news is that you can easily avoid these problems with a few simple maintenance steps. In this guide, we’ll show you how to take care of your HVAC system to prevent water damage and protect your home.

9 Causes of Water Damage from Air Conditioners

Water damage from air conditioners is more common than you might think.

Here are some of the most frequent air conditioner water damage culprits:

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Lines: When the drain line is blocked by dirt or debris, water can back up and overflow, leading to water damage.
2. Frozen Evaporator Coils: Poor airflow or low refrigerant levels can cause the coils to freeze. When they thaw, excess water can overflow the drain pan.
3. Dirty Air Filters: A clogged filter restricts airflow. This can freeze the coils. Once thawed, the water can leak into surrounding areas.
4. Damaged Drain Pans: Over time, drain pans can crack or rust. This allows water to escape and cause slow leaks.
5. Disconnected Drain Line: If the line disconnects, water will leak from the unit instead of draining.
6. Broken Condensate Pumps: If the pump fails, it won’t drain water. This can cause overflow and damage nearby floors or walls.
7. Faulty Thermostat: A faulty thermostat can cause the AC to run nonstop. This increases condensation and overwhelms the drainage system. While it may not directly cause leaks, it can worsen problems like frozen coils, leading to water damage.
8. Damaged Insulation: Poor or damaged insulation around the evaporator can reduce efficiency and cause coil freezing. Frozen coils don’t cause leaks. But, they can lead to excess water when they thaw. This increases the risk of water damage.
9. Low Refrigerant Levels: Often caused by a leak, a low level of refrigerant can cause your evaporator coil to freeze. This can result in water leakage and additional damage. Low refrigerant should be addressed quickly.

Moisture issues in your HVAC system may also promote mold growth in poorly maintained units. Mold spores will spread through the system, contaminating your entire house. Check out how to prevent mold in HVAC systems and other information you need to know about the system.

If your air conditioner is leaking water, fix it ASAP to prevent more damage.

How to Prevent Water Damage from Your Air Conditioning Unit

Regular maintenance can help prevent AC units from leaking, thus preventing significant water damage. Fixing a water leak right away can prevent bigger problems. These include structural damage, mold, and lower system efficiency.

Check the Air Conditioner Drain Pan and Coils

• Remove Debris, Dirt and Mold: The coils in your AC system should be clean, free of dirt, dust and debris. Also, check for any signs of mold or algae growth. Dirty or moldy coils can restrict airflow. This reduces your AC unit’s efficiency. It may also raise energy costs or freeze the coils. In humid areas, mold and algae are common. They can harm your home’s air quality.
• Physical Condition: Inspect parts, especially the fins, for corrosion. The fins should be straight and evenly spaced. Bent or damaged fins can block airflow and lower the unit’s efficiency. A fin comb can help straighten them if needed. 
• Corrosion and Stress Fractures: Look for corrosion, which can contribute to long-term damage. Stress fractures in the refrigerant lines and connections can also cause leaks. These issues reduce your system’s cooling capacity and may cause more serious issues.
• Drain Pans: Ensure the drain pans are clean and draining. This lets standing water flow and prevents water from accumulating in the pans. If water lingers, it can lead to rust and potential mold damage. Replace damaged drain pans. 

Clean the Condensation Line

Clean and check the condensation line every 3-6 months. This prevents blockages and removes debris. When your AC is running, ensure water flows to the drain. The flow rate will change depending on the humidity level in your home. Regular cleaning helps prevent AC leaks that can cause water damage.

• Prevent Algae Growth: Flush the drain tube once or twice a year with an HVAC line cleaner to prevent mold or algae. This simple step helps keep the pipe clear and functioning correctly.
• Clear Clogs: If the drain is clogged, attach a wet/dry vac to the line and use it to suck out the blockage.
• Check Connections: Ensure the main and emergency drain pipes are properly connected.
• Correct Alignment: Periodically check the pipe’s orientation. It may have been knocked out of alignment, which could affect drainage.

Change the Air Filter

Changing the air filter is one of the simplest yet most important HVAC tasks. A clean filter keeps your system running well and helps prevent water damage.

• Frequency: Inspect and change your HVAC filter regularly. Do this based on usage, as your system’s manufacturer recommends, usually every one to three months. Dirty filters restrict airflow. Poor airflow forces your system to work overtime and may freeze the evaporator coils. When they thaw, the excess water could overflow and cause damage to your home.
• Filter Type: Use the appropriate MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) filter recommended for your unit. Be sure to consult your HVAC system’s manual to select the correct type of filter. Using the wrong filter can restrict airflow and strain your system. 

Insulate Refrigerant Line

Insulate or replace the insulation on the refrigerant (suction) line. Your air conditioner has two main refrigerant lines. They move refrigerant vapor from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. The larger suction pipe gets cold during operation and needs insulation. 

The smaller liquid pipe generally does not need insulation, but it may still be needed in some environments. On newer units, the manufacturer may have already addressed the condensation issues, but be sure to check this area.

• Why It Matters: If the suction line isn’t insulated, it can “sweat.” This means water droplets will form on the outside. Over time, this moisture can drip onto your walls, floors, or ceiling, causing damage.
• Schedule Periodic Checks: Inspect your refrigerant line insulation, especially if it’s outdoors. Look for signs of wear, tear, or missing sections.
• Replace When Needed: If you find damaged or missing insulation, replace it. Refrigerant line insulation is available at most hardware stores. Consult an HVAC professional for help if needed.

Install a Condensation Pump and Safety Float Switch

If gravity is not adequately draining your unit, install a condensation pump. Commonly, these pumps are needed when the air handler is in a basement or attic. Gravity drainage alone does not always ensure proper water flow in these areas. 

The pump will drain excess water, preventing damage. Be sure to inspect and maintain the pump regularly. Look for signs of wear, tear, or clogs. Make sure it turns off and on as needed. Also, clean it to make sure it works well.

• Safety Float Switch: Also, install a safety float switch. It will shut off power to the AC unit if condensation builds up and risks overflow. This precaution helps protect your home from unexpected water damage and costly repairs.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Schedule a trained HVAC professional to inspect your system. HVAC maintenance can be complex, so having a professional handle it is wise.

• Expert Care: An expert will ensure your system runs safely and efficiently. This reduces costly repairs and the risk of system failures later.
• Comprehensive Maintenance: Professionals can inspect and fix issues with key HVAC parts. These include the condensate drain, evaporator coil, and refrigerant levels. 

Identifying and Addressing Water Damage

If you see your AC leaking water or smell mildew around your HVAC unit, act quickly to prevent damage.

• Turn Off the Air Conditioner: Shut it off to stop leaks and reduce damage.
• Clear the Condensate Drain Line: Make sure the condensate line is clear. This will prevent water from backing up into the system and causing leaks.
• Check for ice on evaporator coils: Ice indicates low refrigerant or airflow issues. If ice is present, it can melt and lead to further water leaks.
• Contact a Professional: Hire an HVAC service for an expert assessment. An HVAC pro can find the cause and help fix it before it gets worse.

Does My Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Your homeowners’ insurance may cover “sudden” water damage caused by air conditioner leaks. However, it may not cover damage caused due to lack of routine maintenance.

Coverage specifics will depend on your policy. Review your policy. Discuss the details with your insurance agent. It’s a good idea to know what’s covered and what isn’t.

Filing a claim for water damage from your AC may raise your future insurance rates. So, weigh your options carefully before proceeding.

Water Damage Restoration and Prevention

When your air conditioner leaks, quick action is vital. It will manage the water and prevent further issues. Start by containing and assessing the damage to determine if you can manage the repairs on your own. Preventing AC leaks through regular maintenance can help avoid future water damage.

Before beginning any cleanup, take proper safety precautions—Avoid standing in water, especially near electrical outlets or appliances. If necessary, shut off the electricity before you begin. If you cannot safely reach the HVAC power, shut the electricity off at the main breaker.

Once ready, grab a dry mop or towels to soak up any standing water and start drying. As you inspect the area, remove any water-damaged materials. This can prevent further damage. 

If the damage is extensive, or if you’re unsure about handling the repairs safely, it’s smart to call in a professional. A local water damage restoration company can provide reliable, thorough service.

After the cleanup, contact a professional HVAC technician for a full inspection before turning your AC unit back on.

A licensed HVAC technician can find the source of the leak and help prevent future issues, making sure your HVAC system keeps your home comfortable without the risk of recurring water damage.

PuroClean Emergency Services is available to provide expert water damage restoration services, serving cities between Dayton and Cincinnati, OH, including Moraine, Kettering, Beavercreek and West Chester.